Mississippi Forestry Commission confirms Emerald Ash Borer in state

PEARL, Miss. (VDN) — The Mississippi Forestry Commission (MFC) has confirmed the presence of the Emerald Ash Borer (EAB) (Agrilus planipennis) in Issaquena County, marking the first known detection of this invasive insect in the state.

The confirmation was made following a field investigation by MFC Forest Management and Forest Health staff in cooperation with federal and state partners. The identification was verified by Mississippi State University.

Native to Asia, the Emerald Ash Borer is a destructive wood-boring beetle that attacks and kills all species of ash trees (Fraxinus spp.). Since its initial discovery in Michigan in 2002, EAB has killed hundreds of millions of ash trees across North America. The insect’s larvae feed beneath the bark, disrupting the tree’s ability to transport water and nutrients.

“The arrival of Emerald Ash Borer in Mississippi is unfortunate but not unexpected,” said Russell Bozeman, Mississippi State Forester. “Ash trees are valuable components of both our urban and natural forests. The MFC will work closely with partners and landowners to monitor the spread of EAB and provide guidance on how to manage its impact.”

Ash trees infested with EAB typically die within 3–5 years. Signs of infestation include canopy thinning, D-shaped exit holes in the bark, serpentine larval galleries under the bark, and increased woodpecker activity.

Landowners and residents are encouraged to take the following steps:

• Refrain from moving firewood, which can unintentionally transport the insect.
• Inspect ash trees for signs of infestation.
• Report suspected EAB activity to the Mississippi Forestry Commission by calling (601) 359-1386 or visiting www.mfc.ms.gov.

The MFC will continue to conduct surveys and outreach efforts in coordination with the Mississippi Department of Agriculture and Commerce, USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS), and other agencies.

For more information on EAB and ash tree management strategies, click here.